ARQstrategieën

ARQstrategieën refers to a Dutch framework for the psychological care of individuals and groups exposed to traumatic events. Developed by the ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, these strategies aim to prevent or mitigate the development of long-term psychological problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions. The core principle is early intervention, providing timely and appropriate support to those affected.

The ARQstrategieën encompass several key components. These include proactive risk assessment to identify individuals at higher risk of developing psychological distress, psychoeducation to inform individuals about the normal reactions to trauma and available support, and debriefing or psychological first aid in the immediate aftermath of an event. Beyond these initial steps, the strategies also outline pathways for further psychological treatment for those who continue to experience significant difficulties.

The framework emphasizes a stepped-care approach, meaning that interventions are tailored to the individual's needs, ranging from minimal support for most to intensive treatment for a smaller group. This approach aims for efficiency and effectiveness in managing the psychological impact of trauma. The ARQstrategieën are widely applied in various settings in the Netherlands, including emergency services, healthcare, and disaster response. They are based on scientific research and clinical experience in the field of psychotraumatology.